Space to grow, time to enjoy
Located in the heart of Aotearoa New Zealand’s North Island, Waikato offers the best of both worlds — dynamic urban centres and peaceful rural escapes. With a strong sense of community, a growing health sector, and a rich cultural heritage, the region is ideal for professionals looking to make a difference while enjoying a balanced lifestyle.
Hamilton, the largest city in Waikato, is a hub of education, research, and innovation, home to major hospitals, universities, and health training providers.
Highlights of the region include:
- the mighty Waikato River — New Zealand’s longest river, winding
- through Hamilton and beyond
- the world-famous Waitomo Caves and their glowworms
- the black-sand surf beaches and laid-back culture of Raglan
- the award-winning themed collections of Hamilton Gardens
- and the scenic Coromandel coastline, perfect for weekend escapes.
Waikato offers an affordable lifestyle in a welcoming, diverse community, with excellent schools, growing job opportunities, and easy access to nature, culture, and adventure. Whether you’re starting your career, relocating with whānau, or ready for your next challenge, Waikato is a region where you can thrive.
Where nature meets innovation
Waikato blends natural beauty with growing urban opportunity. From Hamilton’s lively city centre to the black sand beaches of Raglan and the caves of Waitomo, the region offers career possibilities alongside rich cultural and outdoor experiences.
It’s a place where you can grow professionally and still have time to explore.
Where nature meets innovation
Waikato blends natural beauty with growing urban opportunity. From Hamilton’s lively city centre to the black sand beaches of Raglan and the caves of Waitomo, the region offers career possibilities alongside rich cultural and outdoor experiences.
It’s a place where you can grow professionally and still have time to explore.
Working in Waikato
Health New Zealand Waikato serves one of the largest and most diverse regions in the country, spanning more than 21,000 square kilometres. The region stretches:
- from the northern Coromandel Peninsula
- southward to the base of Mt Ruapehu
- from the rugged west coast at Raglan
- across to the east coast town of Waihi.
With over 8,000 kaimahi supporting a population of more than 425,000 people, we are one of the largest employers in the region. Waikato’s communities are as diverse as the landscapes — 23% of the population identify as Māori, significantly higher than the national average of 16%. This makes cultural safety and equity key priorities in the way we deliver care.
Urban centres such as Hamilton are home to 59% of the population and offer major hospitals, educational institutions, and growing specialist services. Meanwhile, 41% live in rural or semi-rural areas, where our staff provide essential healthcare across small towns, remote communities, and wide geographic distances.
Hospitals in Waikato
Waikato Hospital
Thames Hospital
Tokoroa Hospital
Taumarunui Hospital
Te Kuiti Hospital
Healthcare services in Waikato
- Anaesthesia
- Audiology
- Cancer services
- Cardiology
- Cardiothoracic and Vascular Surgery (CCTVS)
- Child Development Centre
- Combined Stroke Service
- Consult Liaison
- Critical Care
- Dermatology
- Gastroenterology
- Gynaecology
- Laboratory
- Obstetrics
- Paediatric Surgery
- Patient Blood Management
- Peritonectomy
- Radiation Therapy
- Radiology
- Respiratory
- Sleep Clinic
- Trauma service
- Women's health
- Child Hearing Vision
- Children’s health
- Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health (ICAMHS)
- Maternity services
- Memory service
- Mothercraft
- Newborn Hearing Screening
- Perinatal Mental Health
- Sexual health
- Ahikāroa — Community Housing Support Service
- Assertive Community Treatment (ACT)
- Community Alcohol and Drugs (CADS)
- Crisis Assessment and Home Treatment (CAHT)
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
- Disability Support Services (DSS) 0 to 65
- Inpatient mental health facilities
- Intellectual Disability Dual Disorder Service (IDDS)
- Mental Health and Addictions
- Mental Health Service for Older People (MHSOP)
- Psychology
- Puawai: Midland Regional Forensic Psychiatric Service
- Specialist Eating Disorders (SEDS)
- Suicide Prevention and Postvention
- Te Puna Oranga
- Triage
- Allied Health
- Community and Southern Rural Health
- Community Breastfeeding Support Service
- Community Equipment and Supplies
- Community Specialist Nurses
- Continuing Care
- Corporate and Performance Support
- Dietitians
- District Nursing
- Health Improvement
- Health of Older People (HOP)
- Meals on Wheels
- Occupational Therapy
- Older Persons, Rehabilitation and Allied Health
- Orthotic Services
- Physiotherapy
- Population and Public Health
- Public Health Advisory and Development (PHAD)
- Public Health Nurses
- Social Work
- Southern Rural Health
- Speech Language Therapy
- START (Supported Transfer Accelerated Rehabilitation Team)
- Strategy and Funding
- Thames Family Health Team
- Volunteering
- Regional diabetes service
Towns and cities in Waikato
The Waikato region spans a large area of the central North Island and includes a mix of urban centres, rural towns, and coastal communities.
Hamilton
Hamilton is New Zealand’s fourth largest city. It blends vibrant city life with natural beauty. Explore the stunning Hamilton Gardens, enjoy riverside dining, and experience rich Māori culture. With thriving arts, top events, and nearby Hobbiton, Hamilton is the perfect base for unforgettable adventures in the heart of the North Island.
Cambridge
Known for its equestrian culture, elegant heritage buildings, and a relaxed village vibe. Known as the “Town of Trees and Champions,” it boasts world-class cycling, boutique shopping, and serene riverside walks. Just minutes from Lake Karapiro, Cambridge is a picturesque escape with timeless appeal.
Matamata
Matamata is a picturesque town set against rolling green hills, best known as the gateway to Hobbiton. Experience friendly local charm, scenic countryside, and rich farming heritage. Whether you are exploring film magic or relaxing in nature, Matamata offers a magical blend of adventure, tranquility, and small-town warmth.
Tokoroa
A friendly, down-to-earth town nestled in the heart of the South Waikato. Surrounded by forests and lakes, it is perfect for outdoor lovers — offering mountain biking, fishing, and scenic trails. With strong community spirit and rich forestry heritage, Tokoroa is a gateway to authentic Kiwi experiences.
Thames
A historic gold rush town nestled between the Coromandel Ranges and the sea. Rich in heritage and character, it offers charming shops, coastal walks, and gateway access to the Coromandel Peninsula. Enjoy local markets, lush bush hikes, and a warm, welcoming community in this coastal gem.
Raglan
A laid-back surf town known for its world-class left-hand break and bohemian charm. Nestled between rugged coastline and lush hills, it offers stunning beaches, vibrant arts, and friendly cafes. Whether you are surfing, hiking, or relaxing, Raglan is the perfect coastal escape with creative soul.